An Ireland Road Trip Photo Essay

Did you know that Ireland has few motorways to get all the famous destinations? In all of my Ireland road trip planning, I overlooked the fact that even though there are roads that connect cities and attractions not all of them are fast. The speed limits were 100 km/hr (60 mph) outside of the towns and cities, but we found ourselves consistently going under the speed limit on the narrow, winding roads, while continuing to add minutes to our estimated time of arrival (ETA).

What I loved the most is the brown signs indicating tourism points of interest. At first, the signs started to only be sights and attractions but later would include B&Bs. The co-pilot really had to pay attention to make sure we were not missing any crucial must-sees.

Here are some highlights from the road trip:

Dublin

Don’t worry if it is raining, there are tons of pubs to hop into while waiting out the weather.

The Custom House

Newgrange

Did you know Newgrange is older than the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge?

Belfast

Belfast has the largest dry dock in the world and is where the Titanic was build.

Belfast City Hall

Titanic Belfast

Giant’s Causeway

Save money by parking and walking around the Visitor Center to the coast. Make sure to step onto the basalt columns with views of Scotland on a clear day.

Letterkenny

Letterkenny is the most populous town in County Donegal and is known for its nightlife.

St. Eunan’s Cathedral

Glenveagh National Park

Take a tour of the Glenveagh Castle and its grounds for beautiful landscape views around Lough Beagh.

Kilybegs

Grab some seafood and walk along the docks of this small, quaint town.

St. Mary’s Church

Lough Eske

Look out for the Lough Eske Monster (or Eskie for short) last seen in 1998, which is rumored to be a publicity stunt.

Solis Lough Eske Castle

Slieve League

Plan a day hike on some of the highest sea cliffs Europe has to offer.

Louisburgh

Take a walk on a beach or climb Croagh Patrick.

Connemara National Park

Choose between three loop walks that all start at the Visitor Center.

Galway

I wish we could have spent more time in Galway with its pedestrian streets and vibrant flare.

Spanish Arch

Cliffs of Moher

Take in more views of the Ireland coast plunging into the Atlantic Ocean at this tourist destination stop. If you can avoid parking your car, admission is free.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny has a mid-evil feel to it with its castle and art/craft culture. Stroll through the streets or relax on the bright green castle grounds while the locals play some Gaelic pickup games.